Bhanjanagar, (Amarendra Kumar Pattnaik) 19 April 2025 — In a major operation against drug trafficking, Bhanjanagar Police have arrested two individuals and seized 7.2 kilograms of contraband ganja under Case No. 413, registered under Section 20(b)(ii)(B) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The arrests occurred on Saturday, as law enforcement intensifies its crackdown on illicit drug trade in the region.
The accused have been identified as Ripon Sekh (30) and resident of West Bengal. Sekh, son of Nujbar Sekh, hails from Sagarpada village in the Jalangi police station area of Murshidabad, while Andhriya Digal (50), son of Kakar Digal, is from Mundargaon village in the K. Nuagaon area of Kandhamal district. Both individuals have been taken into custody and subsequently forwarded to the local court for processing.
According to IIC Jibananada Jena, who oversaw the operation, the successful seizure of the ganja was the result of diligent intelligence work and coordination between various departments. “We had received credible information regarding the transportation of illegal drugs in the locality. Our team acted swiftly, resulting in this significant seizure,” Jena stated, emphasizing the police’s commitment to combatting drug-related crimes.
Details regarding how the drugs were transported remain unclear as the investigation is still ongoing. Local sources indicate that the ganja originated from regions known for marijuana cultivation, often smuggled for distribution in urban areas across the state. “The proliferation of drug trafficking is a serious issue that affects not only individuals but the community at large. We are determined to dismantle these networks,” added Jena.
While the police’s efforts have been met with praise from local officials and community leaders, some residents express concern about the potential for increased scrutiny and the implications for local farmers. “We understand the need for law enforcement, but we also believe that many individuals in our villages depend on the land for their livelihood,” voiced a local farmer who wished to remain anonymous.
The NDPS Act has been a crucial tool in the fight against drug trafficking, enabling authorities to impose stringent penalties on those involved in the trade. However, the law has drawn some criticism for its perceived harshness and the impact on small-time offenders. Experts argue that a balanced approach is needed—one that addresses the root causes of drug trafficking while also considering social implications.
As Bhanjanagar Police continue their investigation, both Sekh and Digal remain in custody, appeared in court. Legal experts indicate that if convicted under the NDPS Act, they could face severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.
In conclusion, the seizure of 7.2 kilograms of ganja marks a significant step forward in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Odisha. As law enforcement ramps up its efforts, the community is left to grapple with the complexities of drug use and the socio-economic factors that contribute to this pressing issue. Local authorities emphasize the need for continued vigilance and cooperation from residents as they work to keep their neighborhoods safe from the scourge of drugs.